Having won 5 major trophies in just the last two years, Luis Enrique’s Barcelona stint has been nothing short of superlative and the number of records that were broken on the way are just an indication of the level at the which the Catalan giants have taken their game to in the last few years. However, with just 13 points in the first 7 games this season, Barca are now in the 4th place in the points table, already playing the “catching up” game early this season. The recent injury to Lionel Messi has had its effect but with the likes of Iniesta reaching the twilight of their his career, the manager has not been able to settle into a team for most games. The squad at the club is one of the most talented in Europe and here is the strongest lineup that Luis Enrique can field when all his stars are fit:
Marc-Andre ter Stegen:
Though the forgettable moment against Celta de Vigo will ring bells at the Camp Nou, Ter Stegen is the best option for Luis Enrique and he needs to have the confidence of the manager to stay strong for the rest of the season.
Sergi Roberto:
Though not a full back by trait, Roberto has been most effective in that position for Barca since the departure of Dani Alves in the summer. He has the qualities to play for Enrique’s side and should start at the right back position this season.
Gerard Pique:
Easily among the best defenders in world football at the moment, Gerard Pique is one of the first names on the team sheet for club and country and will be the man who will lead the back-line for Barcelona this season.
Samuel Umtiti:
Having started the season beside Pique at the back, the French international lost his place in the squad due to an injury but he is set to be back in a couple of weeks and is the best option for Enrique to partner the Spaniard in defense.
Jordi Alba:
The Spanish international is among the best full-backs in the world and has been consistent for his side for some time now. He is a player who will walk in every top class European squad and should start for Barcelona on a regular basis.
Sergio Busquets:
Another one of the consistent performers for Barcelona for a long time now, Busquets is also one of the best players in his position and an important player for Enrique’s side occupying the pivot in front of the back four.
Ivan Rakitic:
The Croatian has made a sizzling start to the season scoring 2 goals already. Though currently nursing an injury, the 28-year old is a regular starter in the side for a couple of years now and will find his place in the midfield in Barca’s strongest XI.
Arda Turan:
A player bang in form at the moment, Turan has been influential for Luis Enrique this season. He has already netted 6 goals for the side and is turning into the top class player that Barca wanted when they snatched him from Atletico Madrid.
Lionel Messi:
Arguably the best footballer in the world, Messi has scored 8 goals already this season but has picked up an injury recently. He is also set to be back in a couple of weeks and will walk straight into the side when back fit.
Luis Suarez:
The Uruguayan has not been able to set the league on fire as yet this season but his effect on the side was visible in the last two season where he helped them to two consecutive league title. He is the best option for Enrique to lead his side in attack.
Neymar Jr:
The Brazilian has been Barca’s best player this season, scoring 5 goals, setting up another few and also helping his side create chance after chance in almost every game. He is growing on to become one of the best players in Europe and he will get his chance to do so regularly at the Camp Nou.